Ruth Signe Johnson

Ruth S. Johnson, 90, died peacefully on January 30, 2025, and has been reunited with her partner and husband of 72 years, Howard, who died last year.

Ruth was born and raised in Minneapolis, Minnesota. She attended Bethany College in Lindsborg, Kansas where she met Howard. They then set out together on life sharing all the joy, happiness, love, and challenges that a full life contains. Ruth was a talented seamstress and made clothes for family and friends, as well as drapes, quilts, stuffed animals, decorative pillows, and other special pieces. She also worked at Wichita State University as the administrative assistant to the Dean of the MBA program, where she was affectionately known as “Dr. Johnson.” She and Howard were active supporters of Wichita State football (back in the day) and basketball.

After retirement, Ruth and Howard traveled and had an active social life with friends and family. They also enjoyed following their grandsons and great grandson in sports and music games and performances. Gloria Dei Lutheran Church was especially important to Ruth and Howard and they were actively involved in so many things with the Church.

Ruth is survived by her son, Kevin and his partner Cindy, daughter Kristin and son-in-law Dale, grandsons Ryan, Erik and Michael and his wife Jacquelyn, and great-grandson Sebastian.

A family visitation will occur on Tuesday, February 18 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Smith Family Mortuary, 1415 N. Rock Road, Derby. The funeral will be on Wednesday, February 19 at 11:00 at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 1101 N. River Boulevard, Wichita. Entombment will be in the Gloria Dei Columbarium and will take place after the funeral service.

A Memorial has been established with Gloria Dei Lutheran Church.